(ANS – Rome) –With the publication of the third and final part the interview by ANS with Bishop Capelli of Gizo comes to a close. This time the subject is the 27th General Chapter of the Congregation.

The next General Chapter will have for its theme witnessing to the gospel. How nowadays can a Salesian Bishop witness to the gospel in a radical manner?

Bishop Capelli:
He can do by being with his people as Don Bosco did with his boys, “assisting” them with his brotherly presence so as to understand their needs, anticipate their problems, care for their wounds...This is not an easy thing to do, especially on account of the large distances involved. It is a presence which becomes a telling sign of a more living  Presence which can fill our life.
Fr Cimatti, and Fr Braga both summed up in one word the radical witnessing to the gospel that can be undertaken in the Orient: “friendship”! This is appreciated everywhere! A sincere friendship which recognises in every individual one meets their real worth, and which encourages them to  appreciate themselves in their real dignity and leads them to discover His grace and His friendship which bring freedom to the heart and give meaning to the whole of life.

The GC27 theme refers to work and temperance. How would you explain the importance of these two virtues to a young Salesian in formation?

Bishop Capelli:
Work and temperance enable a Salesian to be and to live for others in everything and always  in imitation of Don Bosco, who was motivated and supported by grace. Without  sacrifice nothing good or longlasting can be achieved. “Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies it bears much fruit” (Jn 12, 24)
In order to take off, my light aircraft needs to use all the power it has: if the engine were only at half throttle it would never begin to fly! Either we love generously with sacrifice, or we are just selfish.

Published 08/06/2012